Buying a lens on craigslist. Meeting in person. Tips welcome.

[b00gym4n]

I plan on purchasing a lens from a seller through craigslist. What are some of the things I should check for when inspecting the lens? Should I bring my camera to test it out on my camera? Should I check for a serial number? Any tips or advice would be much appreciated. I do not want to get scammed or ripped off.

Thanks in advance.

[Donald]

Pat

Can you tell us what lens it is? Then people might be able to give better advice.

[Dave Humphries]

Hi Pat,

I answered a question very similar to this here a few weeks ago, don't just read my post though, read the whole thread; Lens purchase on Ebay (eBay being the UK equivalent of craigslist I gather). It should be a good script for things to check 'in the hand', so to speak.

Yes, you might as well take your camera, but make sure someone knows where you're going though (just in case), I don't know the area - is it safe? (to venture into with a pocket full of cash)

Cheers,

[rpcrowe]

I have problems with Craigslist... Although I have bought and sold many items on Craigslist, I have recently read of many bogus activities centered around this selling service. Many thieves are fencing hot items through Craigslist ads and many dishonest folks are robbing people who bring cash for a Craigslist purchase.

[Shadowman]

Hi Pat,

I answered a question very similar to this here a few weeks ago, don't just read my post though, read the whole thread; Lens purchase on Ebay (eBay being the UK equivalent of craigslist I gather). It should be a good script for things to check 'in the hand', so to speak.

Yes, you might as well take your camera, but make sure someone knows where you're going though (just in case), I don't know the area - is it safe? (to venture into with a pocket full of cash)

Cheers,

Better still, take someone with you and make make the meeting place public like a library. Before you get to lens inspection:
1. Ask if they have the original receipt or original packaging.
2. Make sure the serial numbers are visible.
3. Check the person's i.d. if you are paying by check.
4. Check the lens for scratches, nicks, etc.
5. Check the pins, if they are bent or damaged you don't want to connect it to your camera.
6. If the seller has a camera, try it on their camera first.
7. Then move on to trying it with your camera.

[Eric M]

Any tips or advice would be much appreciated.

Carry a gun...

[b00gym4n]

Pat

Can you tell us what lens it is? Then people might be able to give better advice.

I'm checking out a Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 lens... priced at $1000

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I know you're just joking, but I do own several guns. However, I don't think bringing one would be a good idea, even if you're just joking. I might bring a friend though just so things go smoothly.

Thanks for the safety advices guys and the other link. It has a lot of detail.

[Dave Humphries]

Carry a gun...

He'll have a Cannon, will that do?

[Wirefox]

I know you're just joking

I'm not sure they are. In the UK we would certainly carry a rolled umbrella.

Even in the UK where gun ownership is restricted to the gentry, council flat occupants and military (if they are lucky) there have been incidents of people meeting to buy cars and ending up taking the bus home. I hope you intend to meet in a very public place. I am not suggesting for one minute you should carry a firearm but I think your suggestion of taking a friend may be a wise one. (just make sure that Heckler Koch does not show as a bulge in his body armour)

[Sam Smith]

I have bought several items form Craigs list. Each time I made arrangements to meet it was always in a very public place, during busy times. I refuse to met at the persons house or on a street corner. I will have someone with me or know where I am going. Just think and be alert.

[Dave Humphries]

I have bought several items form Craigs list. Each time I made arrangements to meet it was always in a very public place, during busy times. I refuse to met at the persons house or on a street corner. I will have someone with me or know where I am going. Just think and be alert.

Very wise advice